When it comes to summer skincare and makeup, there’s one product I reach for more than anything else: a clean tinted moisturizer. I want something that hydrates, evens out my skin tone, and adds a healthy glow—ideally with some sun protection, too.
Lately, I’ve been on a mission to test out a handful of highly recommended clean beauty tinted moisturizers. Some have been around for a while, others are newer to the scene—but they’re all marketed as better-for-you formulas packed with skincare benefits.
Today, I’m sharing my honest thoughts on five different tinted moisturizers I’ve tested recently. Each one offers something a little different in terms of texture, coverage, and ingredients—and I definitely have a few favorites.
1. ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40
Shade: Diaz (30 shades)
SPF: 40
This one is a favorite in the clean beauty world—and I can see why. It delivers light to medium coverage, has serious skincare benefits (think hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and squalene), and offers a dewy finish that actually lasts.
It goes on with a dropper and is the most liquid-y of all the options I tried. If you like a lightweight serum feel but want something that still evens skin tone beautifully, this one’s for you. Some people mention a strange scent, but honestly, it didn’t bother me at all. I loved all the shade options. I tried it in person at Sephora and ordered online during a sale. So many shades to choose from!
My Top Pick Overall
2. Beauty by Earth Tinted Face Sunscreen
Shade: Light Beige
SPF: 20
This was the lightest color of the bunch, and it feels the most like a traditional sunscreen. That said, it blends in easily and feels surprisingly moisturizing thanks to ingredients like aloe vera, jojoba, coconut oil, and sunflower oil.
If you’re looking for something super lightweight and easy for beach days or quick errands, this is a great clean and afforable option. Just don’t expect much coverage—it’s very sheer.
Best for: Everyday sun protection with a hint of tint
3. Counter – Dew Skin Tinted Moisturizer
Shade: 3 (8 Shades)
SPF: 20
This formula has long been a fan favorite, and for good reason. It blends in beautifully, has a creamy texture, and leaves skin looking glowy and hydrated. It also includes black currant seed oil, peony root extract, and vitamin C to help improve skin over time.
I still love this one for its reliable performance and hydrating finish. If you want a formula that wears well on dry or mature skin, this one’s a standout.
Most Hydrating Formula
*I’ve used this product for over six years, but I was completely out and haven’t restocked the new Counter formula yet. I’m trying to finish what I already have — which is what I always suggest when switching to clean products: just swap things out as you run out. So while Dew Skin isn’t in the review photos, I can still share my thoughts on the formula.
4. Olive Rose Skin Tint
Shade: 3 or 4 (18 Shades)
SPF: None
This one surprised me in all the best ways. The Olive Rose Skin Tint is ultra-light, silky, and easy to apply. It has buildable coverage, and I love that it’s packed with anti-inflammatory hydroxytyrosol and hyaluronic acid. Plus, there’s no water in the formula.
It’s free of alcohol, fragrance, silicone, and other common irritants, which makes it ideal for sensitive skin. While it doesn’t have SPF, the skincare benefits definitely make it stand out.
Best for: Skincare meets makeup, without SPF
5. Crunchi SUNLIGHT® Tinted SPF 30
Shade Range: (5 Options)
SPF: 30
Crunchi’s formula blends sun protection, skincare, and makeup into one. It’s a heavier, creamier formula than the others, with a more matte finish. If you prefer a foundation-like texture and fuller coverage, you’ll love this one.
Personally, it was more coverage than I typically wear day-to-day and I had to mix two shades to get the proper color match, but I know many people who absolutely swear by it. I don’t have a direct link, but I’d be happy to connect you with a few friends who can help you find your shade.
Best for: Full coverage with SPF
Final Thoughts + Ranking
Everyone’s skin and preferences are different, but here’s how I’d rank the tinted moisturizers I tried:
- Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint – Most well-rounded: high SPF, beautiful texture, tons of shades
- Counter – Dew Skin – Still a classic for hydration and glow
- Beauty by Earth – Sheer and simple for no-makeup days
- Olive Rose Skin Tint – Lightweight, clean, and calming on the skin
- Crunchi Sunlight – Best for fuller coverage lovers
If you’re shopping for a new clean tinted moisturizer, I hope this helps you narrow it down! Let me know if you’ve tried any of these—or if you have another favorite I should test next.
Have questions about shade matching or ingredients? Feel free to reach out or leave a comment. I love helping you find clean beauty that works with your skin, not against it.